Egg-based dishes have long been cherished for their versatility and ease of preparation. Among the many egg-centric recipes, the frittata stands out as a timeless favorite. This Italian dish, which is similar to an omelet but more rustic in style, allows for endless variations, depending on what ingredients you have on hand. The Ham and Cheese Frittata is one such variation that’s both simple and packed with flavor. This dish is perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even a quick dinner, offering a balance of protein, savory goodness, and comforting richness.
The combination of eggs, ham, cheese, bell pepper, and onion makes for a satisfying meal that works well for any time of day. The frittata is an ideal choice for using up leftovers—whether it’s ham from a holiday feast or the last bits of cheese you need to finish up. With a few basic ingredients, you can create a filling, flavorful meal that pleases even the pickiest eaters.
What makes this ham and cheese frittata particularly special is its simplicity. There’s no need for complicated techniques or hours of preparation. It’s a dish that delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort, making it the perfect addition to any busy household. Whether you’re cooking for one, two, or a crowd, this dish can be easily scaled to suit your needs. The balance of rich, savory ingredients and the fluffy texture of the eggs creates a meal that’s both satisfying and wholesome.
In this recipe, the ham and cheese offer a delightful combination of salty and savory flavors, while the bell pepper and onion provide a fresh, aromatic contrast. The beauty of this frittata lies in its ability to be customized with your favorite ingredients. From adding spinach for a pop of color to swapping ham for bacon or sausage, this dish is as flexible as your taste buds allow. Let’s dive into the steps that make this Ham and Cheese Frittata a perfect addition to your cooking repertoire.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
- Eggs: 8 large
- Milk: 100 ml
- Ham: 100 g, diced
- Semi-hard Cheese: 100 g, grated (such as Cheddar or Gouda)
- Bell Pepper: 50 g, chopped
- Onion: 50 g, finely chopped
- Butter: 5 g (for greasing the dish)
- Salt: To taste
- Black Pepper: To taste
These ingredients come together to create a dish that is not only filling but also packed with flavor. The eggs are the star of the show, creating a fluffy base that holds all the other ingredients together. The ham adds a savory depth, while the cheese provides a melty, gooey texture that makes each bite irresistible. The bell pepper and onion lend a mild sweetness and freshness, brightening up the dish and balancing out the richness of the eggs and cheese.
Steps to Make Cheese and Ham Egg Bake:
- Preheat the Oven:
Begin by preheating your oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease a medium-sized baking dish (approximately 9×9 inches) with butter to prevent the egg bake from sticking. - Prepare the Ingredients:
Dice the ham into small cubes. Grate the cheese of your choice. Chop the bell pepper and finely dice the onion. - Prepare the Egg Mixture:
In a large mixing bowl, crack the eggs and add the milk. Whisk the eggs and milk together until well combined, creating a smooth mixture. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. - Assemble the Dish:
Spread the diced ham, chopped bell pepper, and onion evenly across the bottom of the greased baking dish. Pour the egg mixture over the top, ensuring that the ingredients are evenly distributed. Sprinkle the grated cheese on top. - Bake the Dish:
Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 25–30 minutes, or until the eggs are fully set and the top is lightly golden brown. If you insert a knife into the center, it should come out clean. - Cool and Serve:
Allow the egg bake to cool for a few minutes before cutting into squares or wedges. Serve warm, and enjoy!
Prep Time:
- 10 minutes
Cooking Time:
- 25–30 minutes
Total Time:
- 35–40 minutes
KCAL (Per Serving):
- Approximately 220-250 kcal (based on 6 servings)
Servings:
- 6 servings (depending on portion size)
Explanation of the Recipe: Why It’s Timeless
The Cheese and Ham Egg Bake is a timeless recipe for several reasons. First and foremost, it’s simple and quick to prepare, making it an ideal choice for busy mornings. The ingredients are common pantry staples that most people already have in their kitchens, which makes it an accessible recipe for almost anyone. Moreover, its versatility is a major factor in its timelessness. You can easily customize this dish to suit your tastes, whether by swapping out vegetables or experimenting with different types of cheese.
Secondly, the dish is incredibly satisfying. It provides a good balance of protein, fat, and carbohydrates, making it a wholesome breakfast that will keep you full for hours. It’s also a great way to sneak in some veggies (such as the bell pepper and onion), making it a more nutritious option than a standard fried breakfast.
Lastly, the Cheese and Ham Egg Bake is a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re hosting a family brunch, preparing a meal for guests, or making a quick breakfast for yourself, this dish is sure to satisfy. It’s comforting and flavorful, making it a meal that never goes out of style.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
- Calories: 220-250 kcal
- Protein: 14 g
- Carbohydrates: 5 g
- Fat: 18 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Sugar: 2 g
- Cholesterol: 195 mg
- Sodium: 450 mg
FAQs
1. Can I use other types of meat instead of ham?
Yes, you can easily substitute ham with bacon, sausage, or turkey for a different flavor profile. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly if you’re using raw meat.
2. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dish the night before and store it in the fridge. The next morning, simply pop it into the oven to reheat.
3. Can I use dairy-free milk for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute the milk with any non-dairy milk, such as almond milk, soy milk, or oat milk. Just make sure to choose an unsweetened version to keep the flavor balanced.
4. Can I add more vegetables?
Yes! Feel free to add more vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini. Just make sure to cook any vegetables that release water (like mushrooms) before adding them to the dish to avoid making the egg bake too watery.
Tips for Making the Perfect Cheese and Ham Egg Bake
- Use good-quality cheese: The cheese is one of the key ingredients, so using a high-quality, flavorful cheese like aged Cheddar or Gouda will make a noticeable difference in the taste.
- Don’t overcook: Be careful not to overcook the egg bake. If baked for too long, the eggs can become rubbery. Keep an eye on the dish during the final few minutes to ensure it stays soft and fluffy.
- Rest before serving: Let the dish cool for a few minutes after baking. This allows the eggs to firm up slightly, making it easier to slice and serve.
- Add a touch of fresh herbs: After baking, sprinkle some freshly chopped herbs (such as parsley, chives, or thyme) on top for a burst of color and flavor.
Storage Tips
- Refrigeration: Store leftover egg bake in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 10 minutes, or microwave individual portions for about 1–2 minutes.
- Freezing: If you want to make this dish ahead of time, you can freeze it. Wrap individual portions in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store in a freezer-safe container. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake at 180°C (350°F) until heated through, about 15–20 minutes.
Conclusion
The Cheese and Ham Egg Bake is more than just a breakfast—it’s a comforting and versatile dish that can be enjoyed at any time of the day. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or preparing a quick meal for yourself, this easy-to-make recipe will never disappoint. The combination of eggs, cheese, ham, and vegetables creates a balanced, flavorful meal that can be customized to suit your tastes. Its simplicity, nutritional value, and ability to please all palates make it a timeless choice in kitchens around the world. So, the next time you’re craving a delicious, filling meal, look no further than this savory egg bake—it’s sure to become a family favorite for years to come.